Interview techniques
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The document provides 18 tips for preparing for and conducting a successful job interview: (1) Bring necessary documents and materials to the interview, (2) Research the company beforehand, (3) Display confidence through positive body language and facial expressions, (4) Arrive early and be professionally dressed and groomed on interview day. Key aspects of the interview include listening actively, answering questions fully but concisely, asking informed questions of the interviewer, maintaining a polite and professional demeanor, and following up with a thank you note after the interview. Proper preparation and following basic best practices increases the chances of a good impression and job offer.
Interview techniques
- 1. Introduction Even the smartest and most qualified job seekers need to prepare for job interviews. Some interview techniques are given below:
- 2. (1) Things to take to the interview Remember to bring important items to the interview: • Notebook and pens • Three copies each of your resume, cover letter, letter(s) of recommendation, transcripts, and other documents • A list of references
- 3. • A nice folder for your résumé and other documents Just so your résumé doesn't look like something cat dragged in, keep it in pristine condition in a professional-looking folder. Here are other important items to bring to an interview. 3
- 4. • Interviewer / Company Phone Number Even if you've allowed plenty of time for traffic the unexpected can always happen, like an accident that prevents you from getting to your interview on time. Have the phone number handy so you can call and discuss timing, and possibly reschedule your interview over the phone for another time. 4
- 5. • Notebook with prepared questions It is inevitable the interviewer will ask if you have any questions for him/her. As long as you've remembered to bring the notebook where you outlined prepared questions, this part of the interview will be easy for you. 5
- 6. • Reference Sheet Bring a sheet separate from your résumé that lists your professional references. It's usually a good sign when the interviewer asks for references, so eliminate any hesitation by providing your reference list on the spot. 6
- 7. • A Pen That Works You'll need something to write down notes during your interview, for your own information and in case there's anything that triggers questions you may want to save for the end. Just be sure to scribble before you leave the house so you're not stuck with a useless pen. 7
- 8. (2) Research the company Find out as much as you can about the company through annual reports, company website, Newspapers, etc. Your effort will show in the job interview, and you’ll be seen as proactive, hardworking and astute.
- 9. (3) Display confidence during the interview , but let the interviewer start the dialogue. Send a positive message with your body language. • Shake hands firmly, but only if a hand is offered to you first. • Maintain eye contact. • Listen carefully. Welcome all questions, even the difficult ones, with a smile. • Give honest, direct answers. • Develop answers in your head before you respond. If you don't understand a question, ask for it to be repeated or clarified. You don't have to rush, but you don't want to appear indecisive.
- 10. (4) On the day of the interview, remember to: • Plan your schedule so you arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. • Go by yourself. • Look professional. Dress in a manner appropriate to the job. • Leave your MP3 player, coffee, water bottle, or backpack at home or in your car. • Turn off your cell phone. • Bring your sense of humor and SMILE!
- 11. (5) How to Dress for a Professional Interview One of the key factors that will help you achieve success in getting a job is the way you dress when you go for an interview. It is not acceptable to dress in jeans, t-shirt or a sweatshirt. In fact, it is never acceptable to wear jeans to an interview unless the company tells you to do so.
- 12. It is important to know what to wear to an interview and to be well-groomed. Whether you wear a suit or something less formal depends on the company culture and the position you are seeking. If possible, call to find out about the company dress code before the interview.
- 13. Men's Interview Attire • Suit (solid color – navy blue, black or dark grey) • Long sleeve shirt (white or coordinated with the suit) • Belt • Tie • Dark socks, conservative leather shoes
- 14. • Neat, professional hairstyle • Limit the aftershave • Neatly trimmed nails • Portfolio or briefcase
- 15. Women's Interview Attire • Suit (navy blue, black or dark grey) • White or light color shirt. • Conservative shoes • Limited jewelry (no dangling earrings or arms full of bracelets) or no jewelry
- 16. • Professional hairstyle Hair needs to be clean, dry and neatly combed. If you have long hair, you can pull it back and tie with a clip or a hair band to avoid creating distractions. Wearing too high a pony tail or a deshi style “high khopa” may look odd at interviews. • Neatly manicured clean nails Nails should be clean and of moderate length. Too long nails or nail ornaments create distractions and may send wrong messages.
- 17. • Light make-up and perfume • Portfolio or briefcase
- 18. (6) Practice good nonverbal communication It's about demonstrating confidence: standing straight, making eye contact and connecting with a firm handshake. That first nonverbal impression can be a great beginning -- or quick ending -- to your interview.
- 19. (7) Listen and Remain attentive Stay alert during the job interview. From the very beginning of the interview, your interviewer is giving you information, either directly or indirectly. If you are not hearing it, you are missing a major opportunity. Good communication skills include listening and letting the person know you heard what was said. Observe your interviewer, and match that style and pace.
- 20. (8) Don't talk too much Telling the interviewer more than he needs to know could be a fatal mistake. When you have not prepared ahead of time, you may ramble when answering interview questions, sometimes talking yourself right out of the job. Prepare for the interview by reading through the job posting, matching your skills with the position's requirements and relating only that information.
- 21. (9) Give 1 to 2 minute responses Communication is the key to successful interviewing. A one to two minutes of well- prepared discussion gives the interviewer insight into your intellect and supports your contentions.
- 22. (10) Don't be too familiar The interview is a professional meeting to talk business. This is not about making a new friend. Your level of familiarity should mimic the interviewer's demeanor. It is important to bring energy and enthusiasm to the interview and to ask questions, but do not overstep your place as a candidate looking for a job.
- 23. (11) Use appropriate language You should use professional language during the interview. Be aware of any inappropriate slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics or sexual orientation -- these topics could send you out the door very quickly.
- 24. (12) Don't be overconfident and arrogant Attitude plays a key role in your interview success. There is a fine balance between confidence, professionalism and modesty. Even if you're putting on a performance to demonstrate your ability, overconfidence is as bad, if not worse, as being too reserved.
- 25. (13) Take care to answer the questions When interviewers ask for an example of a time when you did something, they are asking behavioral interview questions, which are designed to elicit a sample of your past behavior. If you fail to relate a specific example, you not only don't answer the question, but you also miss an opportunity to prove your ability and talk about your skills.
- 26. (14) Review common interview questions Practice answering them with someone else or in front of a mirror. Come prepared with stories that relate to the skills that the employer wants, while emphasizing your: • Strengths • Willingness to work and flexibility • Leadership skills • Ability and willingness to learn new things • Contributions to the organizations in which you have worked or volunteered • Creativity in solving problems and working with people
- 27. (15 ) Don't appear desperate When you interview with the "please, please hire me" approach, you appear desperate and less confident. Reflect the three Cs during the interview: cool, calm and confidence. You know you can do the job; make sure the interviewer believes you can, too.
- 28. (16) Ask probing questions A few strategic questions can demonstrate your intelligence, analytical skills and assertiveness. Have these prepared from your research. Avoid superficial small talk. When asked if they have any questions, most candidates answer, "No." Wrong answer. Part of knowing how to interview is being ready to ask questions that demonstrate an interest in what goes on in the company. Asking questions also gives you the opportunity to find out if this is the right place for you. The best questions come from listening to what you're asked during the interview and asking for additional information.
- 29. Pick questions that will demonstrate your interest in the job and the company. This might include commenting on the news you learned from the company website, and then asking a question related to it. Also ask questions about the job you will be expected to perform, like:
- 30. • What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this job? • How will my responsibilities and performance be measured? By whom? • Could you explain your organizational structure? • What computer equipment and software do you use? • What is the organization's plan for the next five years?
- 31. (17) End the interview with a good impression. A positive end to the interview is another way to ensure your success. • Be courteous and allow the interview to end on time. • Restate any strengths and experiences that you might not have emphasized earlier. • Mention a particular accomplishment or activity that fits the job.
- 32. • Ask when the employer plans to make a decision. • Indicate a time when you may contact the employer to learn of the decision. • Don't forget to send a thank-you note or letter after the interview.
- 33. (18) Some last moment tips Here are some last moment tips that can save you from unnecessary stress: • Have your clothes and accessories ready the night before so that you are not in a hurry on the day of interview. • If you are going to wear a brand new outfit or shoes, make sure you cut off all the tags and try them on ahead of time. • Remember to turn your mobile phone off before entering the interview room.
- 34. • Keep a breath freshener/mint in your purse (no chewing gums please) and use it right before entering the office building. • Better not to bring in water or any other soft drink. • It is safe to carry an umbrella if there is even a slight chance of rain. • Dress according to the weather. • Be at the interview venue 10-15 minutes before the interview.